“When it comes to surviving a tornado, every second counts,” said Doak. “That’s why this bill is so important. I commend Rep. Lucas and Rep. Bridenstine for their hard work on this much needed legislation which includes a Tornado Warning Improvement Program to help develop advanced notification systems. I have no doubt this bill will save both lives and property.”

H.R. 353 directs the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to focus resources and effort to:

-Rebalance NOAA funding to place a higher priority on weather-related research and activities;

-Create programs to extend warning lead times and improve forecasts for tornadoes and hurricanes;

-Develop a plan to utilize advanced technology to regain U.S. superiority in weather modeling and forecasts;

-Increase focus and continue development of seasonal forecasts; and

-Enhance coordination among various federal government weather stakeholders.

The legislation also authorizes and extends a NOAA pilot program to purchase commercial satellite weather data.

H.R. 353 has passed both the House and Senate and only needs the President’s signature to become law.

About the Oklahoma Insurance Department

The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.